STEPHANIE NORDSTROM
Staff Writer
For most students, Spring Break is a chance to relax and let all their worries melt away under the sun. Unfortunately, that mentality can cause many problems for the unwary traveler. There are several ways to keep Spring Break safe and memorable instead of disastrous and a time best forgotten.
Drinking
Excessive alcohol consumption has become a large part of Spring Break culture. While it is obvious that alcohol lowers inhibitions and causes people to engage in unsafe behavior that may be harmful to themselves or others, it is also important to remember that intoxication causes vulnerability to attack, theft, or fraud.
It is important to guard drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), at all times in order to prevent someone from tampering with the drink.
According to College Safe, students should even check drinks with a DrinkSafe strip available for purchase at www.drinksafetech.com. You can place a sample of your drink on the strip and it will change color if the drink contains drugs.
Sun
Nothing ruins a vacation like a scorching sunburn. Remember to apply sunscreen every few hours when outdoors, paying careful attention to the nose, ears and shoulders, which normally burn first.
However, keep in mind that sand and snow reflects sun so that almost any body part can burn. Also remember that sun burns happen even on cloudy days because clouds do not block UV rays. Don’t forget to bring a hat or a pair of shades with UV protection to save your eyes.
Road Trip
Road trips can be a great way to bond with friends, but don’t forget the essentials. When preparing to embark on a long road trip, make sure you have everything you need to make it to your destination and back. Have the car serviced and check oil, belts, hoses and tires to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Be prepared by carrying a spare tire, tools, first aid kit, water and snacks in case something goes wrong. It is also a good idea to bring a AAA card and cell phone so you can get help if necessary. Always keep car doors locked, even while in the car in order to avoid car jacking or assault.
Foreign Travel
When traveling outside of the United States, remember to learn basic laws and customs of that country to avoid spending a vacation stuck in a foreign jail. Also be sure to carry the appropriate identification such as a passport, ID card, birth certificate or other proof of citizenship.
Give a sealed envelope containing a copy of your passport, traveler’s checks and other important information to your parents or a trusted friend. If necessary, those people can send you the needed information.
Hotel
Many tourists experience a false sense of security when staying in hotels. Keep the doors locked and bolted at all times. Use the peephole. Be suspicious of anyone who tries to get into your hotel room.
If someone unexpectedly comes to your door claiming to be hotel staff or security person, check with the front desk before letting the person in. Store all valuables in the room’s safety deposit box or front desk. Do not let strangers know what hotel room you are in.
Theft
Be wary of thieves who prey on distracted tourists who are focused on having fun. Do not wear expensive jewelry or accessories that could attract a mugger. Keep keys, credit cards and money close to your body and beware of pick pockets.
Spend money cautiously. Remember that many vendors may take advantage of excited and irrational tourists who are willing to spend money without the option of returning sub-par, fake or stolen merchandise.
Back Home
Criminals are aware of Spring Break dates. There is no easier time to break into an apartment without witnesses than during Spring Break. Before you leave be sure to hide all valuables or store them in a secure location. You may want to invest in some door and window alarms to scare burglars away.
Don’t forget to clear your refrigerator of anything that may rot or spoil by the time you return from your trip. Unplug appliances to save electricity and lessen the chance of the appliance shorting out causing fire.
Observe
It is imperative that tourists be observant in their new settings. Be on the lookout for scams or criminals. Be aware of suspicious activity or objects.
If any bags, backpacks or other objects are left unattended, alert a police officer or security guard, but do not touch the object.
Also watch your friends. Make sure that they are not too intoxicated or at all drugged. If they are sick do not leave them alone. Stick together to make sure that everyone makes it home safely.
Finally, be sure that your parents or friends know when you are leaving, where you are going, how you plan to get there and when they should expect you to return.
02-16-2006
